Don’t you think now is the time?
Hello Folks,
With all the debate and emphasis on global warming and the increased dependency on foreign oil to fuel our economy and life styles isn’t it time to go green? Over the last few weeks I have given you ideas on saving money by going green but I did not hit on one of the other major advantages and that is less of an impact on our environment. However they go hand-in-hand less of a demand for centrally generated electricity or fossil fuels will most likely mean a decrease in harmful impact on the environment. Here is a quick example using solar cells or wind generators to produce electricity at a local site are nonpolluting. This site would not make a demand for electricity from the power grid so no increase in the capacity of the power station is needed. Have you noticed the school zone lights in your neighborhood? I bet if they have been installed recently they are solar powered. Look at phones located along the interstates in rural areas you are likely to see they are solar powered. We have the technology it is only a matter of us the consumer making the demand.
Many builders know how to build green but they feel we the consumers are not willing to pay more for a green built home. In the short time I have been an EcoBrokerâ I have met some builders and architects with the foresight to see now is the time for green. Builders claim to give us what we demand, I know of no large builder in our local market that is building green. Is it a lack of demand, a lack of knowledge (consumer and builders) or is it purely an aversion to change? Maybe, builders feel they will be lees competitive with a higher price product. The increased cost is upfront in the initial cost, but the monthly outlay is less then for a conventional built home. Also, in a society that is becoming more aware of the benefits of green built homes the value will increase quicker than a conventionally built home.
Okay, they wont build it because they are afraid we will not come! You do not have to build a new home to embrace green benefits. You can do a green remodel, it is not as efficient as a green designed home but the savings on energy use can be significant and reduce the impact on the environment at the same time. Remember a few weeks back I talked about an Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) well they can be used to do a green remodel also. If you are interested in an EEM and your lender gives you a blank face when you ask about it call your Realtor, another blank face? At this point it is time to run (walking or calling is acceptable too) to your nearest EcoBrokerâ and say help me.
Going “Green” can be priceless!!!